Norway Facilitates Peace Talks in Colombia

The Colombian Government and EGC have agreed on an accord that lays the foundation for a process aimed at ensuring that EGC disarms, reintegrates into society and ceases all illegal activities, including those related to narcotics.

'For Colombia to succeed in achieving lasting peace, the disarmament of EGC is absolutely crucial. We are pleased to contribute to a process that will represent an important step towards improving the humanitarian situation for people living in areas severely affected by conflict,' said State Secretary Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik.

Peace and conflict resolution are key elements of Norwegian foreign policy. Norway has been engaged in peace efforts in Colombia for several decades. We hold formal roles in peace dialogues between the Colombian Government and several of the country's armed groups.

Norway is also a guarantor country for the implementation of the 2016 peace agreement between the Colombian Government and the former FARC guerrilla.

'Norway has extensive experience in peace efforts in Colombia, and we appreciate the trust shown by the parties. Our role is to facilitate constructive dialogue and helping them finding solutions when they reach an impasse,' said Kravik.

At the request of the parties, Norway will facilitate the negotiation along with Qatar, Switzerland, and Spain, but also assist in the implementation of the commitments agreed upon under the agreement.